North Carolina vs South Carolina Electricity Rates
Data: EIA November 2025 | Updated March 2026
Compare North Carolina and South Carolina rates. North Carolina pays 0.89¢/kWh less than South Carolina. See per-kWh rates, average bills, and usage.
Rate Comparison
Metric
North Carolina
South Carolina
National Avg
Residential Rate
14.64¢/kWh
15.53¢/kWh
17.24¢/kWh
Avg Monthly Bill
$148.64
$163.13
$152.02
Monthly Usage
1,015 kWh
1,050 kWh
-
Market Type
regulated
regulated
-
Rate Rank (1=highest)
#34
#31
-
YoY Change
+13.5%
+13.9%
-
Key Findings
North Carolina has lower electricity rates at 14.64¢/kWh vs 15.53¢/kWh in South Carolina (5.7% difference).
North Carolina residents pay about $14 less per month on average ($148.64 vs $163.13).
North Carolina is a regulated market while South Carolina is regulated.
Both states have seen rate increases: North Carolina +13.5% and South Carolina +13.9% year-over-year.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is electricity cheaper in North Carolina or South Carolina?
North Carolina has lower residential electricity rates at 14.64¢/kWh compared to 15.53¢/kWh in South Carolina, a difference of 0.89¢/kWh.
What is the average electric bill in North Carolina vs South Carolina?
The average monthly electric bill is $148.64 in North Carolina and $163.13 in South Carolina. The national average is $152.02.
Are North Carolina and South Carolina electricity markets regulated?
North Carolina has a regulated electricity market, while South Carolina has a regulated market. In deregulated markets, consumers can choose their electricity provider.
How can I verify my electricity bill in North Carolina or South Carolina?
Upload your bill to Utility Check for an independent third-party verification. We check rate calculations, compare your plan to alternatives, and identify billing errors. Visit our How It Works page to learn more.